Name: Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup raw pecans; 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds; 3 tablespoons maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; flaky sea salt; 3 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto; 6 cups arugula or shredded kale; 2 honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, diced; arils from 1 pomegranate; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple butter (optional); 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 2 teaspoons chopped fresh sage; kosher salt and black pepper

Looking for a delicious and refreshing salad to enjoy this autumn? Look no further than this Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad! Packed with a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this salad is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great Flavors: The combination of sweet honeycrisp apples, salty feta cheese, and crunchy pecans will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick Prep Time: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this salad can be whipped up in no time.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep lunches or dinners.

Ingredient Notes:

Raw Pecans: Add a delicious crunch to the salad and can be substituted with walnuts or almonds.
Pumpkin Seeds: Provide a nutritious boost and can be swapped with sunflower seeds.
Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the flavors.
Cayenne Pepper and Ground Cinnamon: Add a hint of warmth and spice to the salad.
Thinly Sliced Prosciutto: Offers a savory and salty element to the dish.
Arugula or Shredded Kale: Serve as the base of the salad, providing freshness and nutrients.
Honeycrisp Apples: The star of the show, providing a crisp and sweet flavor.
Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats to the salad.
Arils from Pomegranate: Add a pop of color and juicy burst of flavor.
Crumbled Feta Cheese: Offers a tangy and salty contrast to the sweetness of the apples.
Apple Vinaigrette: A flavorful dressing made with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, apple butter (optional), honey or maple syrup, fresh thyme, fresh sage, salt, and pepper.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss pecans and pumpkin seeds with maple syrup, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Spread on the baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until toasted.
Crisp up the prosciutto in a skillet until golden and crispy. Let it cool, then break into pieces.
In a large bowl, combine arugula or kale, sliced apples, avocado, pomegranate arils, feta cheese, toasted nuts and seeds, and crispy prosciutto.
Whisk together the ingredients for the apple vinaigrette and drizzle over the salad.
Toss everything together until well coated and serve immediately.

Helpful Tips:

Make-Ahead: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time but wait to assemble the salad and add dressing until right before serving for the best results.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite nuts, seeds, or greens.
Crispy Prosciutto: For a vegetarian option, simply omit the prosciutto or substitute with crispy chickpeas.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a big difference in the overall flavor of the salad.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Let Flavors Marinate: If possible, let the salad sit for a few minutes after tossing to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions:

This Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or salmon for a complete meal. Serve with a side of crusty bread and a glass of crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate from the dressing and assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the prosciutto separately in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of apple? While honeycrisp apples are recommended for their sweetness and crisp texture, you can use any apple variety you prefer.
Is the apple vinaigrette necessary? The apple vinaigrette adds a delicious flavor to the salad, but you can use your favorite dressing if desired.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time but wait to assemble and dress the salad until just before serving for the best freshness.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will brighten up any autumn meal. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Enjoy this delicious salad with friends and family for a memorable dining experience.